Representatives of Poole Town Football Club, YMCA Bournemouth, and the Gale Foundation Trust CIO recently submitted a concept plan for a community sports village in Creekmoor as part of BCP Council’s Local Plan consultation

At present, Poole Town Football Club does not have its own space to operate from. In addition to the men’s first team, the club have an Under 19’s side as well as two ladies’ teams who all struggle to find pitches to play and train on due to the severe lack of sports facilities within BCP.

A dedicated space to harness all these teams, as well as the 21 junior teams of Poole Town FC Wessex, would result in a tenfold increase in the good work of the Club, and provide space for increased collaboration with other community organisations.

As well as a new football ground and training space for Poole Town Football Club, the concept includes increased nursery facilities, a community hub, a multi-use games area, cycle and walking links, a sports centre and sports village comprising of independent sport and recreation providers.

The Football Club plays an active role in the community and holds the FA’s Accredited Club 3 Star status—the highest community kitemark the FA bestow. The power of football goes far beyond the sport. For children who are struggling, the club provides a physical and mental outlet, and access to a group of trusted, supportive, caring individuals who they grow to listen to and learn from. In addition to free coaching, Poole Town Football Club also facilitates coach and player attendance at several early intervention courses held in Poole secondary schools during the year. As well as offering time and expertise, the Kids Initiative has also donated £3,000 towards the cost of the courses over the past 12 months.